Fusion & Discovery

When I say our church has an incredible student ministry, I’m not even close to doing it justice. Element Student Ministry is seriously such a haven for middle and high school students to not only have fun, but learn about Christ and how to apply scripture to their lives on a daily basis. Fusion is the small group ministry at Element, and is a place where students can grow in their faith just as they grow in stature. And the cool part is that these groups are open to anyone, not only church members, so students can invite friends that might not go to our (or any) church. About two years ago now, a girl I met through our Disciple Bible Study mentioned she needed a co-leader for the small group she was leading for the coming year. They were going to be in 8th grade, and were a terrific group of girls. Having lead middle school small groups in college, I was thrilled by the opportunity, and jumped at the chance. And I am beyond thankful I did! Virginia has been an incredible co-leader and friend and these girls are simply wonderful. We are nearing the end of their freshman year of high school, and these girls are such an important part of my life, and have impacted me far greater than I imagine I have impacted them.

While I have long been such an advocate for pouring into young girls throughout their schooling and into college, both love and knowledge, it’s been even more of a passion since knowing I am going to have a daughter of my own. I pray that in some small way from our group that these girls know just how adored they are by God. That they know they are valued and worthy and have so much more to offer than they can even imagine. That they don’t question their beauty, doubt themselves, or ever think they are alone. Each and every one of these girls is unique and truly make my heart happy! I can’t wait to see how the Lord continues to use them and mold them into the amazing young women he has created them to be!

Another aspect of Fusion groups, aside from the weekly lessons and semester socials, is the opportunity to do mission work with our girls. They have the opportunity through Element to get out in the community (especially in the summer) and go on trips both nationally and internationally to serve, but we’ve also been able to do projects like making sandwiches to pass out to the homeless through a sister ministry. These girls have such a heart for others and it’s neat to be able to watch them in action and get excited about the opportunity to do something for others!

Discovery Weekend is also upon us! Each year Middle School Discovery is held at Trinity. And it is one incredible weekend!

Discovery is a weekend that gives students a place to experience the love of God. This is going to be an exciting weekend where you will grow closer to God and each other. There will be movies, skits, dramas, bands, and games that will speak to students about the love of Jesus. Your relationship with God affects every aspect of your life. Sometimes we fall into this trap of complacency where we feel a lack of awe and wonder for God. You pray… read your Bible… attend church and Sunday school, but you may not have discovered just how cool of a journey your Christian walk can be. At Discovery, we promise you’ll never get bored. You won’t miss the telephone, email, the internet, video games or anything else because Discovery is packed solid with soul-filled conversation, surprises, trips, treats and fun. Our hope and prayer is to create an atmosphere where you will encounter God, have fun, and carry away memories that will last a lifetime!

Each year, middle school students come to learn more about God, high school students volunteer their time to help lead, and as adult leaders we get the opportunity to share love with both groups of students through serving meals, leading d-groups, setting up events, and a variety of other tasks that make the weekend the amazing experience that it is. There are several times of worship throughout the weekend that have corresponding small group time (d-groups), a mission project (Stop Hunger Now), fun activities, lots of food and so many surprises along the way! While I won’t be able to participate this year, one aspect of Discovery that is so intricate to its success is the outpouring of prayer that covers the weekend, and I will certainly be able to contribute to that effort.

I love that such a place exists, and I am so thankful for all the incredible things Trinity is doing for these youth and that I get to be a small part of it!